olmesartan

What is the most important information I should know about olmesartan?

Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Olmesartan can cause injury or death to the unborn baby if you take the medicine during your second or third trimester.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to olmesartan.

Drinking alcohol can further lower your blood pressure and may increase certain side effects of olmesartan.

Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking olmesartan, unless your doctor has told you to.

Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Visit your doctor regularly.

Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

What is olmesartan?

Olmesartan is in a group of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Olmesartan keeps blood vessels from narrowing, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.

Olmesartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and children who are at least 6 years old. It is sometimes given together with other blood pressure medications.

Olmesartan may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking olmesartan?

You should not take olmesartan if you are allergic to it.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests:

• kidney disease;
• liver disease;
• congestive heart failure; or
• if you are dehydrated.

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use olmesartan if you are pregnant. Stop using olmesartan and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Olmesartan can cause injury or death to the unborn baby if you take the medicine during your second or third trimester. Use effective birth control while taking olmesartan.

It is not known whether olmesartan passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are taking olmesartan.

How should I take olmesartan?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

You may take olmesartan with or without food.

Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Visit your doctor regularly.

Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include extreme dizziness, fast or slow heartbeat, or fainting.

What should I avoid while taking olmesartan?

Drinking alcohol can further lower your blood pressure and may increase certain side effects of olmesartan.

Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking olmesartan, unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

What are the possible side effects of olmesartan?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• feeling like you might pass out;
• urinating less than usual or not at all;
• chest pain, fast heart rate; or
• swelling in your hands or feet.

Less serious side effects may include:

• dizziness;
• joint or muscle pain;
• back pain;
• stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea;
• mild itching or skin rash; or
• weakness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect olmesartan?

Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially blood pressure medications such as a diuretic (water pill).:

There may be other drugs that can interact with olmesartan. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about olmesartan.

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